Science, Dancing, and CO-OP!

I cannot believe I have completed two full years as a Schulich Leader at the University of Ottawa. I still remember being offered this amazing opportunity as if it was yesterday!
My second year here was accompanied with some amazing courses, new experiences, and plenty of opportunities to succeed and get involved.
I took some great courses in my Winter semester that further opened my eyes to the many career possibilities available with a science degree. I found my Genetics class to be extremely interesting. I loved the problem solving and logic aspects of the class, and with so much new research happening within the field, there was no shortage of amazing discoveries to discuss. I also found my Animal Form and Function class to be very informative and interesting. I had a wonderful professor that taught the material in a way that really stuck with the students as they studied it. The course also had a laboratory component where we dissected new animals every week. It was a great hands-on experience that allowed the students to actually see the things that they were learning in the lectures. Overall, I truly enjoyed all of my courses this year, and cannot wait for what future semesters have to offer!
The uOttawa Dance Club, for which I was secretary this year, had our second annual recital this March. We performed 13 wonderful routines, and were able to raise $160 in donations for the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO). We also participated in the Ottawa Dance Marathon, with funds going to CHEO, and were awarded the prize for Highest Fundraising Team. I have been selected as Co-President for our 2014-2015 season, and could not be more excited to continue improving our amazing club!
I also participated in the CO-OP placement process this winter. Although a stressful and time-consuming experience, it definitely taught me a lot about the workplace, formal interviews, networking, and how to get hired! I have just started my first placement as a research assistant to a Professor here at the University. We will be working on a Neighbourhood Study to look at the relationship between the environment and the health of the people that live in it. I know it will be an amazing experience, and I am excited to learn as much as possible!